Technology

Technology Academic Programs

The Department of Technology

The Department of Technology is unique in the area of technical education. Our goal is to develop applied engineering and technical management skills in our students so that they excel in industry after graduation. This is accomplished with a mix of fundamental applied engineering knowledge, understanding of the applications and the tools needed in today’s industry, and an understanding of basic and advanced theory.

As the name technology implies, our students learn the latest industry applications and equipment. Technology involves the application of science, mathematics, computers, and management skills to the solution of real world problems.

The first and foremost departmental mission is providing a quality hands-on and theoretical education to our students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. The department prepares our students so they can not only obtain employment after graduation, but the can excel at the job from day one. The department offers undergraduate education in industrial management and technology, manufacturing engineering technology, and electrical engineering technology, and a graduate program in industrial management.

The departmental faculty is involved in continual programmatic assessment and improvement which allows us to educate the next generation of industrial technologists and engineering technologists who excel in the work environment. Within the departmental undergraduate programs, we offer a very broad range of courses which provide both a sound introduction and in-depth analysis in given topics. Each program places emphasis upon theoretical/application instruction and laboratory instruction, skills that are demanded by industry.

The departmental faculty has taken the lead in developing a new Homeland Security Certificate, which develops knowledge needed to obtain employment in this ever changing and expanding security area. Our departmental Master’s of Industrial Management program includes course work in the fields of industrial management, occupational safety, and manufacturing.

Working with industry is another area that is at the forefront of the departmental mission. The NIU Department of Technology prides itself on industrial interaction. Many of the departmental senior projects are conducted with industrial involvement. In addition, students and faculty are involved with projects sponsored through industry and government. As is the case in the technology disciplines, our relationship with industry is the basis behind the concepts that are taught in our curriculums. In addition, technology students are involved with interdisciplinary external projects, from the design of the Basic-Utility-Vehicle to a hovering platform for a science museum. It is this involvement with the faculty and other students which sets our program apart!

Mission

To offer engaged learning programs that promote strong partnerships with industry and foster a synergetic interactive relationship between faculty and students. The Northern Illinois Department of Technology is committed to providing our students with an industry-focused technical education that emphasizes theoretical and applications-oriented approaches to problem solving. The departmental faculty will strive to provide technical programs which allow our students to excel in current and future industrial settings.

Vision

The Northern Illinois University Department of Technology is committed to technical education and programs which incorporate continuous improvement, student-centered engagement, and applied research that prepare our students to analyze, develop, and implement innovative and sustainable solutions for (contemporary) society.